ENGLT 345

Mythologies of the World

This course explores and examines several universal themes of human experience as found through a broad survey of actual myths gathered from around the world. Special emphasis is also placed on the relationships and the similarities of various mythologies. The course includes fairly intensive instruction of primary interpretative theories of mythological research and analysis. This course emphasizes some of the myths underlying the western world view and recognizes diversity and commonality in myths from Middle Eastern, Native North American, African, Asian, and South American cultures. Students analyze, contrast, and compare myths on topics including the goddess culture, creation, the hero's journey, Judeo-Christian themes, the dying god, and psychological applications. From this process, they will gain an understanding of ethnocentrism, ethnicity and racism and the impact of these on the American experience. The format of instruction will involve lecture, group discussion, and other activities.

Units: 3.0

Hours: 54 hours LEC